Otter Lake Water Commission
System Information
System Description
Water is pumped from Otter Lake to the treatment plant at up to 2200 gpm. An emergency connection with Chatham is available. Most of the sedimentation occurs in the lake's northern basin, although a new sedimentation basin should alleviate this problem.
Satellite Communities and Water Districts
Auburn, Divernon, Girard, Glen Arm, Henderson P. Thayer WD, Hettick*, N Macoupin County, Nilwood, Pawnee, S Palmyra WD*, Tovey, and Virden
Population Served: |
16300 |
County: |
Macoupin |
Watersheds: |
Macoupin |
Water Source
Name |
Type |
Stream |
DA (sq mi) |
SA (ac) |
Capacity |
Year Est. |
Est. 2010 Cap. (ac-ft) |
Otter Lake |
IR |
W Fk Otter Cr |
20.2 |
734 |
13767 |
1998 |
13592.5 |
1989 Study: |
50-year drought yield sufficient at present level of water use. |
USGS Gages: |
No data available |
Developments since 1989:
A plant upgrade from 2.7 mgd to 3.5 mgd is proposed. Emergency access to Taylorville's supply via Chatham is being considered. During the 2005 drought, an algae bloom generated many complaints about the water's taste and odor, requiring solar-powered circulators and heavy doses of powder-activated carbon for treatment.
Note: *Hettick and the South Palmyra WD receive approximately half of their supply from Otter Lake.
Notes and Terminology
Vulnerability Report
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